10 Apps To Help Control Your Outbuilding Freezer
Choosing an Outbuilding Freezer
Many people use their garage or outbuilding as an freezer. They are a great asset on busy days, when you have to cook meals quickly.
Freezers are designed to operate at temperatures ranging from 0 to 110 degrees Fahrenheit (-18-43 degrees Celsius). When placed in unsuitable environments they have to work harder, use more energy and wear out faster.
Location
An outdoor freezer needs to be located in an environment that can ensure it is running efficiently. This is because freezers perform best in cool environments This is an aspect that needs to be considered when deciding the location to put the freezer. The freezer should be protected from direct sunlight since this can reduce its energy efficiency, which can result in a higher electric bill. Freezers that are in direct sunlight can be prone to temperature spikes, which can put unnecessary strain on the appliance and result in premature wear.
Convenience and accessibility can also influence the location of the freezer. A freezer located in a shed or garage that is accessible from the kitchen could be a good option. However the freezer that is in a separate shed, which requires you to go outside in the winter or rain to access, may not be as convenient as one that is placed inside.
In the event that the possibility of theft or backyard animals is a concern, a cover that shields the freezer from the elements and debris can keep it secure. This is a particularly important factor for those living near the ocean, as salty air can be harmful to the freezer's components.
Size
When shopping, refrigerators is important to select the correct size freezer. You must ensure that the freezer is big enough for your needs and will be able to accommodate the food consumption of your family. A freezer with a huge capacity can be a great investment and allow you to save money by purchasing in the bulk.
A good rule of thumb is to allow 2.5 cubic feet of storage space per household member. This will allow you to keep a variety of frozen foods, including meats, vegetables, foods as well as drinks, desserts and more. To determine the best size freezer, start by taking measurements of your garage or shed to determine the amount of space you have for a freezer.
If you're looking for a space-saving solution, consider a small or compact upright freezer like the GE Garage Ready 17,3 Cu Frost Free. This freezer is able to fit into a small space and has doors that can open left or right. It features premium insulation that shields the freezer from extreme temperatures and ensures constant operation. It also features a built-in defrost timer that eliminates ice automatically and helps prevent overflow.
Larger freezers, such as the Frigidaire EFRF696 AMZ upright freezer, have plenty of storage space for your favorite foods and beverages. This model is suitable for cold climates. It can be used in temperatures ranging from between -10C and -18C. It has a huge interior that can accommodate up to 20 bags of ice and removable wire shelves.
If you're in search of a freezer that is able to withstand temperatures of ice, check the manufacturer's specifications to ensure the unit will work in your outbuilding or garage. Most manufacturers will list the freezer's climate class, as well as how cold it can be to operate safely in an unheated setting. Certain brands, such as Beko, have freezers that can operate safely in temperatures as low as -15C with their FreezerGuard Technology. Always check the warranty of the manufacturer to ensure that the freezer can be able to withstand the temperature of your garage or outside.
Energy efficiency
If you are going to use an outbuilding freezer in a garage or shed that isn't climate controlled it is recommended to choose an energy efficient model. These models will have greater insulation than other freezers, and will not lose the same amount of cold air when the door is opened. They are also more efficient to run as they will consume less energy. Look for models that have low-frost technology to save energy and decrease defrosting.
You can pick from a wide range of energy-efficient freezers that come in a variety of sizes. They are available in traditional brick and mortar stores such as Walmart, Best Buy and Home Depot as well as online retailers such as Amazon and eBay. In addition, local utility companies may offer discounts on freezers that meet certain efficiency criteria.
It is important to know the size of your freezer as well as how much electricity it will consume to freeze food items. You can use an energy calculator in order to calculate the cost of running a freezer annually.
Freezers use up to their stated wattage when are cooling, but this isn't always the case. Once they reach a predetermined temperature their components (such as the compressor and evaporator fan motor) will enter idle mode.
Be aware of the ENERGY STAR rating when you are choosing a freezer. This certification means that it is in compliance with certain energy consumption guidelines established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Energy. This is particularly important if you are planning to store the freezer in a shed or garage that is not climate controlled since these units typically consume more energy than a conventional freezer.
Additionally, you should look for a freezer with a power outage guarantee and a high-temperature alarm light to ensure that it will continue to operate even in the event of a power outage. You can also buy freezers that feature a self-defrost option that will reduce the frequency of defrosting, and also reduce the cost of energy.
Warranty
While freezers are generally designed to be kept indoors, some people need a larger freezer that can be placed in their garage or shed. If the temperature in this type of setting is too low, it could cause the freezer to cease working properly or even break. Consider investing in an appliance that has a warranty to cover any problems that may arise when it is installed in an outbuilding.
Many manufacturers have started to realize that their customers are often constrained by space, so have produced chest freezers that can be safely placed in garages and other outbuildings. These freezers are built with a 'freezer-protection technology' which means they can operate even at temperatures as low -10degC. Brands like Beko, Ice King, and Russell Hobbs all offer this kind of freezer for outbuildings.
Some companies, like Montpellier has a specialization in outdoor freezers. It is a 99-litre white freestanding chest freezer that can be utilized in outbuildings and garages. It is A+ energy efficient, and has FreezerGuard. It also comes with NordMende's standard 3 year warranty. It is a reputable online retailer with positive reviews from customers and has been in operation since 2014. It is also a Trusted Shops member.